Arusha Serena Hotel

The price is so high!

We stayed at the Serena hotel for a couple of nights when we first arrived in Tanzania. We arrived late, about 21:30 but were still offered a full 3 course meal in the restaurant. Food was great, we have not had a bad meal anywhere in Tanzania during the whole trip. The grounds and views are really nice. There’s even a 642 metre running loop around the gardens to work off all the food you’ll eat here. The room was nice, spacious, clean and great views across the lake. We only gave 4 stars as the room was a little tired, windows didn’t shut properly, the lock in the patio doors didn’t unlock and the restaurant and bar always tried to make you pay cash. There’s card facilities only at the hotel reception and they seemed put out if asked to pay this way. As we only brought cash for tips (which is expected everywhere) we wanted to keep that separate. The last road to the hotel is a little bumpy to say the least. Our driver joked we would get the ‘African Massage’

Excellent hotel. A class above the other hotels in food and service. Victorian / English theme and motif, with a beautifully tended and manicured Garden. We enjoyed the hiking/running path. The service was excellent, and our every need was tended to every step of the way. I want to particularly commend Joseph who was our head waiter during lunch time for the impeccable and very personalized service. We really enjoyed especially the lunch and dinner, set menu with vegetarian options for each course - including details like fresh salad and dressings, and fresh bread and hot soup. Lovely hotel to relax in for a night on our way to Ngorngoro